Top 5 Inspirational Events in 2013

​As we quickly approach the end of the year, we do what we enjoy doing most; reminiscing, recapping and flashing back on the last 12 months. Chapters Indigo sums up the best reads of the year, while Time magazine spreads out their 100 Most Influential People in the World. As for me, I think the holiday season calls for some inspirational feel-goods. Here are the top 5 stories I found inspirational in 2013.

​5. Angelina Jolie’s preventive double mastectomy

Angelina Jolie is a Hollywood actress, film director, screenwriter, author and all-around super woman. When she found out that she is carrying a mutated or faulty gene called BRCA1, she
decided to get preventive double mastectomy (removal of her breasts) to reduce her risk of getting breast cancer.

Body image is often a concern for a patient after cancer treatment. Breasts, for example, can be an important part of a woman’s femininity. I find something inspirational about Angelina Jolie getting a double mastectomy, and sharing her decision with the public. Her decision also brought greater awareness to women about genetic testing, and started a conversation about how expensive genetic testing can be.

4. Amy Robach’s Mammogram

On October 1st, journalist Amy Robach had a mammogram on ABC’s Good Morning America to spread breast cancer awareness and the importance of early detection during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Being reluctant and putting the test off because of her busy schedule, Amy wanted to use herself as a typical example of a busy, working mom. Later, the on-air mammogram showed that she had breast cancer.

Imagine finding out you have cancer while the world is watching! It really showed the importance of getting yourself screened. Amy didn’t have a history of breast cancer in her family and didn’t think she would be affected. Cancer (of any type) spares no one. Be smart and safe by knowing your body and get screened.

3. “If Only for a Second”

“You know what I miss the most? Being carefree.”

How do you help people with cancer be carefree, if only for a second? Twenty cancer patients were offered makeovers by the Mimi Foundation, but were asked to keep their eyes closed until the makeover was done. Little did they know the makeovers would be outrageous! When they open their eyes, the patients’ reactions were captured by a camera through a one-way mirror. I found myself smiling and laughing along with the people in the video.

2. Morgan Platt “Roar”

With the help of family, and the staff, patients, and families at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, Morgan Platt, a 10-year-old with a brain tumour, made a music video to Katy Perry’s “Roar” . She wanted to inspire others. It’s truly amazing watching these young children smile, dance and sing - an embodiment of true courage and strength.

1: Life’s Lesson: Appreciating the Imperfect Christmas Tree

This was a story that was submitted to us by Beverly, and what can I say? I fell in love with it. She shares her experience and the message she got from it with us; life isn’t always perfect, but we should learn to appreciate what we have. It is a valuable lesson that everyone can learn from and truly perfect for the holiday season.

I hope you enjoyed my top 5 countdown. I’ve never had a more teary writing assignment, although they were happy tears with blubbering laughter. Wishing everyone has a safe and wonderful holiday season filled with love and laughter.

Know of inspirational stories that you would like to add? I would love to hear them. Share them with us on
Facebook.